Family and Cosmetic Dentistry: How to Choose the Right Dentist

What's the difference between family and cosmetic dentistry? How can you find the right dentist for your needs? Click here to learn more on the subject.

Did you know there are over 200,000 dentists in the US? With numbers like these, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by options when you're trying to find a dentist near you. Maybe you're looking for a cosmetic dentist to address problems with your smile. Or maybe you want to find a kind, friendly dentist that will make your kids feel at ease. Whatever the case, you need to set aside a few minutes to do some research. In this post, we'll walk you through the differences between family and cosmetic dentistry, as well as provide tips on how to find the best dentist in your area.

Keep reading to learn more!

Just like doctors, dentists have different areas of specialization and training. To ensure you find the right dentist for your needs, here's a brief overview of the two main branches of dentistry.

Family dentistry is also called general dentistry. This is what most people think of when they envision a standard visit to a dental clinic.

A family dentist will handle routine procedures including:

• Examinations and x-rays

• Dental cleanings

• Fillings for cavities

• Root canals

• Tooth extractions

• Periodontal (gum) care

While family or general dentistry takes care of needs, cosmetic dentists focus on giving you the smile you want. Cosmetic dentists may specialize in a number of procedures such as:

• Dental implants

• Braces

• Invisalign

• Crowns

• Veneers

• Dental bonding

• Teeth whitening

Now that you know the difference between family and cosmetic dentistry, it's time to focus on your search. Here are some expert tips to help you locate the right dentist for your needs.

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Whether you get a personal recommendation or you're still on the hunt, your next step is to take your search online.

As you browse a potential dentist's website, look for testimonials from past and current patients. They should have overwhelmingly positive things to say about the dentist, the clinic, the procedures, and how they were treated.

Of course, keep in mind that the dentist chooses which testimonials to include on their business website, so you may not get the complete picture. To round out your opinion, visit third-party review sites such as Google, Yahoo, and Yelp.

Again, the majority of what you read should be positive. One poor review isn't necessarily enough to write off the clinic, but you should beware of a string of negative reviews — especially if everyone has the same complaint.

Now that you're narrowing down a list of candidates, it's time to think about the things that are most important to you.

Write down a list of questions to ask when you call or visit the dental office. These might include:

• Where did you receive your education and training?

• What's your approach to preventative dentistry?

• What are your main areas of specialization?

• What are your normal office hours?

• How do you handle after-hours dental emergencies?

• How often do you attend conferences, workshops, or continuing education courses?

• How do you cater to patients who struggle with dental anxiety?

• Do you only work with adults, or do you accept patients of all ages?

Your questions may be different, but the point is to learn as much as you can before you make your final decision.

A vital question to ask is about the dentist's fees and payment plans.

If you have dental insurance, do they accept your plan? Are they an in-network provider? If not, what options do you have as far as paying for your treatment?

Once you've learned as much as you can online and over the phone, it's time to visit the dental clinic in person. This is the only way you'll truly know if you've found the right dentist for you.

From the moment you step through the door, you should be greeted in a warm and friendly manner. The waiting room and treatment rooms should be neat, clean, and tidy. The staff should wear gloves and masks and use appropriate protective equipment during patient treatment.

If any of these factors is lacking (or missing altogether), take your search elsewhere. Keep looking until you find a clinic where you feel comfortable, safe, and warmly welcomed.

You have a lot of choices when it comes to dentists. That's why it's so important to do some research and find the best dentist for your unique needs.

We've put together this family and cosmetic dentistry guide to help you do just that. If you're looking for the best dentist in the Phoenix, AZ area, we can also assure you that your search is over.

Dr. Darrel Bischoff prides himself on being the friendliest dentist in Peoria. With over 30 years of experience, he and his team can take care of all your family and cosmetic dentistry needs.